With the United States preparing for the January 22nd friendly against Chile, it was announced on Wednesday that two players have been excused for medical reasons. FC Dallas defender Ugo Ihemelu has a nagging hip injury and has been released back to his club. Chivas USA's Justin Braun required stitches to close a cut on his ankle on Tuesday. He is expected to need a week's recovery. Ihemelu has two caps with the United States while Braun was looking for his first.
